Finding the best brain targets for magnetic stimulation therapy

Plain-English translation of NCT06376734 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

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Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) — a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain — to see which brain locations work best for treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. Researchers will give you TMS treatment at two different locations in your brain (with a 2-month break between them) to figure out which target helps the most. Everyone in this study receives active treatment, not placebo.

Current TMS treatments help some people with mental health conditions, but doctors don't yet know which specific brain locations are most effective for different conditions. This trial aims to map out the best targets so that future TMS treatment can be more personalized and successful.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with major depression, anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or schizophrenia
your symptoms are moderate to severe (measured by standard clinical tests)
you have been on a stable mental health medication regimen for at least 4 weeks, or are not taking psychiatric medications
you have an ongoing relationship with a psychiatrist, therapist, psychologist, or other mental health provider

You likely don't qualify if…

you are pregnant or might be pregnant
you have metal implants in your body that would make MRI or TMS unsafe
you have active suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide in the past year
you are currently using ketamine or undergoing electroconvulsive therapy for depression
you have a history of seizures, severe neurological conditions, or recent hospitalization for psychotic symptoms (if you have schizophrenia)

What participation looks like

You will visit the research center for brain imaging and behavioral testing before your first treatment session, then receive 2 days of intensive magnetic stimulation (about 20 treatments total) at one brain location. After a 2-month break, you'll return for the same testing and another 2 days of treatment at a different brain location. Each testing session takes about 6 hours spread over two days, though you can sometimes complete it in one day instead. Throughout the study, you'll work with the research team and your regular mental health provider.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 19, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United States

Acacia Clinics, Sunnyvale, California

Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts